I HAVE to confess, I've been absolutely hooked on X Factor. It's very embarrassing and not something I admit lightly, but I even voted.

Of course, my vote was for the excellent Alexandra and probably because her version of Leonard Cohen's beautiful Hallelujah was fabulous but it was nothing compared to the one performed by the formidable voice and talent of Katherine Jenkins last night.

The entire audience must have been covered with goosebumps as the Welsh mezzo-soprano opera singer blasted out some of the best known songs in the world.

This was my first trip to see Miss Jenkins sing but it definitely won't be my last: I think her appeal is far more than just the amazing voice but also an addictive personality.

She's like a Barbie who can belt like no other. And after every couple of songs, she would retire to change into a different dress.

After one switch she asked: "Do you like my frock?", referring to a beautiful flowing yellow ball gown, and joking: "I saw it in Primark and, you know, VAT's gone right down so I thought I'd treat myself."

The interaction with the audience lasted throughout the show and several times she read out notes which people had posted in a box in the theatre foyer.

She came across as a normal girl, admitting to being star struck when meeting Kylie Minogue.

She told the audience: "I always listen to Kylie's Greatest Hits when I'm getting ready for my shows."

And after each little chat Miss Jenkins launched full throttle into her next song. The highlights were her versions of the Liverpudlian classic You'll Never Walk Alone and Nessun Dorma.

All in all I found Katherine magical, not only to listen to but also to be around. A marvellous show.

ALEX CLAYDON